Lynelle is a feminine given name that originated from the Old French language. It is believed to have been derived from the Old French word "lin," which means flax or linen, and the diminutive suffix "-elle," denoting a smaller or more delicate version of something. The name can therefore be interpreted as "little flax" or "little linen."

While the name's exact origin and earliest recorded use are uncertain, it is thought to have emerged during the Middle Ages in parts of what is now modern-day France. Flax was an essential crop during this period, widely cultivated for its fibers used in producing linen cloth, making the name a reflection of the era's agricultural and textile traditions.

One of the earliest recorded instances of the name Lynelle can be found in the chronicles of a French noble family from the 14th century. The chronicles mention a young woman named Lynelle de Montfort, who lived between 1320 and 1387. She was the daughter of a minor nobleman and is noted for her involvement in a local dispute over land rights.

In the 16th century, a French poet and playwright named Lynelle Durand (1525-1591) gained recognition for her works that explored themes of love, nature, and the experiences of women in her era. Her poetry was widely circulated and admired among literary circles in Paris.

Another notable figure with the name Lynelle was Lynelle Beaumont (1678-1744), a French painter renowned for her intricate portraits and landscapes. She was commissioned by several aristocratic families and even received commissions from the French royal court during her lifetime.

In the 19th century, Lynelle Dubois (1832-1911) was a prominent French educator and advocate for women's rights. She established several schools for girls in Paris and was a vocal supporter of equal educational opportunities for women.

A more recent historical figure was Lynelle Charpentier (1887-1964), a French aviator and one of the first women to obtain a pilot's license in France. She participated in several early air races and competitions, breaking several distance and endurance records for female pilots in the 1920s and 1930s.

While the name Lynelle has French origins, it has also been adopted and used in various English-speaking countries over the centuries, albeit with varying spellings and pronunciations. However, the name retains its connection to its linguistic roots and the historical significance of flax and linen production in the regions where it originated.